Plateau: Sanitation agency cautions against dumping of wastes in drains

The Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has cautioned residents of Jos-Bukuru metropolis against dumping wastes in drains, warning that the act could lead to flooding.

It also advised residents to desist from building along the water ways.

Mr. Christopher Batai, the General Manager, PEPSA, told journalists on Tuesday in Jos that asides from the threat of flooding, indiscriminate dumping of wastes also posed health threats to the public.

“Human activities such as the dumping of waste in drains, building of houses along the water ways and very close to river banks are some major factors that have been causing flooding on the Plateau.

“Erecting houses with no or poor drainage systems can also destroy the environment.

“Dumping of wastes in drains also creates public health challenges.

“It serves as a breeding ground for rats which cause the Lassa fever and vectors like mosquitoes and house flies, which cause malaria and cholera.

“It also leads to the contamination of ground water,” he said.

Batai also cautioned the public against open defecation.

According to him, various enlightenment campaigns have been ongoing to educate the public on the ills associated with defecating in fields; bushes, forests, open bodies of water and other spaces other than the toilets.

“When it rains, it washes away the excreta into the various water bodies such as streams, the wells and rivers.

“This can lead to the outbreak of diseases such as gastrointestinal issues and cholera.

“Members of the public should ensure that they maintain good sanitary conditions in their immediate environment,’’ he said.